We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Patrick William Desmond Ryan (SPC 1983-88) on 20 January 2026.
In numerous tributes, the Ballarat district businessman, farmer, sportsman and community contributor has been remembered for his genuine warmth, integrity, and his dedication which touched everyone who knew him.
Patrick, who was also known to many as Paddy, has been remembered as a “strong leader, a dear friend and a genuine soul”.
His funeral at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Ballarat on 29 January was overflowing, a tribute to the respected father of four.
We extend our deepest condolences to Patrick’s wife Shelley, and their children Molly, Izzie, Matt (SPC 2018-23) and Lily and their extended family.
Patrick grew up on the family farm at Waubra with his parents Des (SPC 1938-39, PY1941) and Carmel, alongside Damien (SPC 1978-80, PY1981), Jacinta, Virgina and Rachel.
He was a day student at SPC, following in the footsteps of his late father Des and grandfather Patrick (SPC 1914-15).
After leaving school, Patrick spent several seasons shearing and working on farms across Victoria, NSW and South Australia, and he studied at Longerenong College.
He also studied accounting and co-founded and co-operated TRG Accountants before pursuing a long-held ambition to establish his own firm, with the founding of Ryan & Co Accountants.
Patrick served on school boards and finance committees including at St Francis Xavier Ballarat, Bungaree Parish Board and Millbrook Community Centre.
He was also a talented footballer, playing junior football at Waubra before senior stints at Murtoa, SMW Rovers, Navarre – becoming a 1999 premiership player – and finally back at Waubra, claiming best and fairest awards at three of those clubs.
He was a long-time volunteer, junior coach, sponsor and five-year treasurer of the Bungaree Football Netball Club, and a valued supporter and sponsor of the Waubra Football Netball Club, and an active supporter of Dunnstown Cricket Club.
In moving tributes, family and friends said Patrick “inspired us to live life to the full” who “fought against the odds with positivity, tenacity and courage”.
